The bustling Kriger Pipeline facility in Dickson City recently played host to a significant visit from Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler. The visit aimed to highlight the impact of deregulation and small business initiatives on the economic landscape, particularly under the Trump administration’s focus on energy dominance.
Energy and Economic Growth
Standing against the backdrop of a yellow CAT 926 Loader, Loeffler emphasized the critical importance of energy dominance within the current U.S. administration’s agenda. Accompanying her were U.S. Representatives Rob Bresnahan and Dan Meuser, both key members of the House Committee on Small Business. Their discussion centered on how pro-growth policies are fostering economic vitality on Main Street.
“When Kelly Loeffler goes to work, it’s about reducing burdens on you, right? Reducing the taxes, it’s advocating for you,” Meuser expressed, highlighting the efforts to alleviate longstanding regulatory pressures on businesses.
Family Business and Industry Insights
Kriger Pipeline, a multi-generational enterprise in Lackawanna County, served as the focal point of the visit. Owner Butch Kriger, with decades of experience, operates the business alongside his sons, Joel and Jamie. The family showcased their operations and equipment, providing Loeffler a firsthand look into the materials and processes involved in pipeline installations.
The Krigers identified gas and water as the rapidly expanding sectors within the pipeline industry. Meanwhile, the rise of data centers, including proposals in Dickson City and Archbald, also emerged as a significant topic, with acknowledgment of the infrastructure demands they entail.
Regulatory Changes and Economic Incentives
During her visit, Loeffler touched on regulatory adjustments, such as the rollback of the 2009 Endangerment Finding, aimed at easing emissions requirements and subsequently lowering equipment costs. “I recently worked with Lee Zeldin at the EPA to roll back the diesel exhaust fluid regulations,” she noted, indicating ongoing efforts to further deregulate.
In terms of economic incentives, the Krigers discussed the tax relief introduced through the Trump administration’s One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act, which offers deductions on overtime pay for upcoming tax years, as outlined by the IRS.
Labor Market Challenges
Finding skilled labor remains a challenge, as Loeffler pointed out the millions of unfilled jobs across the nation. In response, the SBA collaborates with various departments to establish apprenticeship programs tailored for small businesses, addressing the need for trained personnel.
“Small businesses are our primary job creators in America. They create two out of every three new jobs,” Loeffler remarked, underscoring the essential role these enterprises play in local economies.
Through initiatives like Pennsylvania’s FastTrack program, spearheaded by Governor Josh Shapiro, state-level efforts are aligning with federal objectives to expedite economic development projects.
